EVALUATION OF THE IMPACT OF GLYPHOSATE (AN HERBICIDE) ON THE DISTRIBUTION AND ABUNDANCE OF PLANT SPECIES AND SOIL MICROBIAL POPULATION
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Glyphosate is a widely used non-selective herbicide applied in agricultural and non-agricultural settings for effective weed control. However, its extensive and continuous use has raised environmental concerns regarding its impact on ecosystem components, particularly plant species diversity and soil microbial populations. This study evaluates the effect of glyphosate on the distribution and abundance of plant species as well as soil microorganisms. The findings suggest that glyphosate application significantly reduces plant species diversity by eliminating susceptible weeds, leading to a shift in species composition and dominance of tolerant species. In addition, soil microbial populations, including bacteria and fungi, are adversely affected due to changes in soil chemical properties and disruption of microbial activity. These changes may negatively influence soil fertility, nutrient cycling, and overall ecosystem stability. The study concludes that while glyphosate is effective for weed management, its ecological impacts necessitate controlled usage and the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices to minimize environmental degradation.
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